In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 things to do in the city, including famous landmarks, cultural attractions, and unique experiences that will help you get to know this beautiful and dynamic city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s something in Budapest that will appeal to you. So come along as we discover the best that this city has to offer!
The Buda Castle
The Buda Castle is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Budapest. Located on the Buda side of the city, this castle is a testament to Hungary’s rich history and cultural heritage. Built in the 13th century, the castle has served as a royal palace, a fortress, and a museum, and it’s now one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.
The castle is situated on top of Castle Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Danube River. Visitors can explore the castle’s museums and galleries, which feature exhibits on Hungarian history, art, and culture. The castle is also home to the Hungarian National Gallery, which showcases the country’s finest artworks.
When visiting the Buda Castle, be sure to take some time to wander around the castle grounds and take in the stunning views. You can also visit the castle’s chapel, which is home to one of Hungary’s most important historical artifacts: the Holy Crown of Hungary.
The Hungarian Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Budapest. Located on the banks of the Danube River in the city center, this stunning building is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. It’s also the largest parliament building in Europe and the third largest in the world.
The Parliament Building was designed in the Gothic Revival style and was completed in 1902. It’s an impressive building that’s worth a visit just to see its architectural features, including its ornate facade, grand entrance, and beautiful interiors.
Inside the Parliament Building, visitors can take guided tours that will take them through the building’s impressive halls and chambers. You’ll get to see the Hungarian Crown Jewels and other historical artifacts, as well as learn about the country’s political history and how the parliament works.
Fisherman's Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Budapest. Located on the Buda side of the city, this iconic landmark is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It’s a beautiful and historic place that offers stunning views of the city and the river.
Fisherman’s Bastion is a terrace with seven turret-like towers that was built in the 19th century. It’s a popular spot for photography, and it offers some of the best views of the city and the river. Visitors can walk around the bastion and take in the views, or they can sit down at one of the cafes or restaurants that are located nearby.
When visiting Fisherman’s Bastion, be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the city and the river. You can also visit the nearby Buda Castle and other attractions on Castle Hill after your visit to the bastion.
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Budapest. Located in the city’s beautiful City Park, this bath is one of the largest and most popular in Europe. It’s also a great place to relax and rejuvenate after a day of sightseeing.
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a large complex that features several indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms, and massage treatments. The water in the pools is rich in minerals and is said to have therapeutic properties. The bath is also a popular place to socialize, and many locals come here to swim and chat with friends.
When visiting the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, be sure to bring a swimsuit, a towel, and some flip-flops. You can also rent a locker to store your belongings. If you want to indulge in some extra pampering, you can book a massage or a beauty treatment.
St. Stephen's Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Budapest. Located in the heart of the city, this basilica is one of the most important religious and cultural landmarks in Hungary. It’s named after the country’s first king, St. Stephen, and it’s the largest church in Budapest.
The basilica is a stunning building with a grand facade and a beautiful interior. It’s worth a visit just to see its architectural features, including its ornate altar, intricate frescoes, and beautiful stained glass windows. The basilica is also home to several important historical artifacts, including the mummified right hand of St. Stephen.
Visitors to the basilica can attend Mass or take a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture. The basilica also hosts concerts and other cultural events throughout the year.
The Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Budapest. Located in the heart of the city, this iconic bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Hungary. It’s a suspension bridge that spans the Danube River and connects the Buda and Pest sides of the city.
The Chain Bridge was the first permanent bridge to be built across the Danube, and it was completed in 1849. It’s a beautiful and historic bridge that’s worth a visit just to see its architectural features, including its grand towers and ornate lamp posts. The bridge is also a popular spot for photography, and it offers stunning views of the city and the river.
Visitors to the Chain Bridge can walk or bike across the bridge and take in the views, or they can take a boat tour of the river to see the bridge from a different perspective. There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby that offer outdoor seating with great views of the bridge.
The Hungarian State Opera House
The Hungarian State Opera House is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Budapest. Located in the city center, this stunning opera house is one of the most famous cultural landmarks in Hungary. It’s a beautiful building that’s worth a visit just to see its architectural features, including its grand entrance, ornate interiors, and beautiful chandeliers.
The Hungarian State Opera House is home to some of the best opera and ballet productions in the country, and it’s a popular venue for classical music concerts as well. Visitors can buy tickets to attend a performance, or they can take a guided tour of the opera house to learn about its history and architecture.
When attending a performance at the Hungarian State Opera House, be sure to dress appropriately and arrive early to get the best seats in the house. You can also enjoy a meal or a drink at the opera house’s restaurant or cafe before the show.
Take a stroll along the Danube Promenade
The Danube Promenade is a popular attraction in Budapest that offers stunning views of the city. It is a walkway along the river that stretches for several kilometers, and it is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
As you stroll along the promenade, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the beautiful surroundings and enjoy the fresh air. You’ll see the Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building in the distance, as well as the many bridges that span the river.
One of the highlights of the promenade is the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, which is a tribute to the Jews who were killed by fascist Arrow Cross militiamen during World War II. The memorial consists of a series of bronze shoes on the bank of the river, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities that took place during the war.
The Heroes' Square
The Heroes’ Square is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Budapest. Located in the city’s beautiful City Park, this square is one of the most important cultural and historical landmarks in the city. It’s a great place to learn about Hungarian history and culture, and it’s also a popular spot for photography and picnics.
The Heroes’ Square is home to several important monuments, including the Millennium Monument, which honors Hungary’s historical and cultural achievements. The square is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which pays tribute to Hungary’s fallen heroes.
Visitors to the Heroes’ Square can take a guided tour to learn about the monuments and the history they represent, or they can simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the beautiful park. There are also several cafes and restaurants nearby where you can relax and have a meal or a drink.
The Central Market Hall
The Central Market Hall is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Budapest. Located in the city center, this bustling market is one of the most popular landmarks in the city. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, try local food and drink, and immerse yourself in Hungarian culture.
The Central Market Hall is a large, three-story building that’s home to hundreds of stalls selling everything from fresh produce and meats to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Visitors can browse the stalls and sample local food and drink, or they can sit down at one of the market’s many food stalls and restaurants to enjoy a meal.
When visiting the Central Market Hall, be sure to bring some cash and be prepared to haggle with the vendors. You can also take a guided tour of the market to learn about its history and culture.
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